Undine Falls: 60-Foot Basalt Waterfall on Lava Creek Near Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone

Q: Is it worth the 0.4-mile hike to the brink?

Yes. The closer view reveals all three plunges and the basalt texture up close.

Q: Can I bring my dog to the Lava Creek area?

Leashed dogs are allowed on the Lava Creek Trail; keep a safe distance from wildlife and other visitors.

Q: Will the overlook be icy in winter?

Yes. Stairs can be extremely icy; wear traction devices and proceed with caution.

Q: Is there any water at the viewpoint or toilets nearby?

Potable water is not explicitly available at the overlook; use the vault toilets at the Lava Creek Picnic Area and carry your own water.

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Overview

About This Attraction

Dark basalt frames a three-part cascade, with spray sweeping the overlook as water plunges about 60 feet. From the roadside pullout, a short 100-foot walk reveals the bold drop, while the Lava Creek Trail offers closer perspectives along the brink (0.4 miles one-way). This falls sits on a 700,000-year-old basalt layer, older than the Lava Creek Tuff eruption that reshaped the Yellowstone story. A longer hike from the Lava Creek Picnic Area reaches the brink for a more visceral view.

Best Time to Visit

Spring for higher flow from snowmelt; May–October is best for hiking; golden-hour light in the afternoon; evening light good for long exposures; avoid midday glare.

Visitor Tips

Drive-up view via roadside pullout; small parking area; peak-season parking can fill early.
Lava Creek Trail to the brink adds ~0.4 miles one-way (0.8 miles round trip).
Winter: overlook stairs can be icy; wear traction cleats.
Bear spray and distance from wildlife are prudent; stay on designated paths.
Carry water; no explicit potable water at the viewpoint.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 44.9436930, -110.6404550

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Lava Creek Picnic Area, Lava Creek Trail, Wraith Falls nearby

Insider Tips

Look for basalt textures at the brink.
Bring traction cleats in snow; bear spray in season.
Short walk from pullout; 0.4 miles to brink via Lava Creek Trail

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Short overlook with unpaved paths; stairs on Lava Creek Trail; not fully paved

Family Friendly:

Easy overlook; supervise children near edge; wildlife awareness is essential

Nearby Facilities:

Lava Creek Picnic Area restrooms; parking; water not guaranteed at viewpoint

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking can fill during peak season; plan for early arrival or expect limited roadside spots.

Is it worth the 0.4-mile hike to the brink?

Can I bring my dog to the Lava Creek area?

Will the overlook be icy in winter?

Is there any water at the viewpoint or toilets nearby?

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